Mavs raise NBA ticket costs; Kyrie Irving injured

This is AI generated summarization, which may have errors. For context, always refer to the full article.

The Mavericks, facing significant backlash from fans after trading superstar Luka Doncic, cite 'ongoing investments' on the team and the fans for upping season-ticket prices

Citing “ongoing investments in the team and fan engagement,” the Dallas Mavericks are upping season-ticket prices by at least 8.5% for next season.

The increase is the second in two off-seasons and comes on the heels of trading All-Star Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers last month.

The Mavericks have faced significant backlash from fans and questions nationally from media and observers since they parted with Doncic, the 25-year-old face of the franchise, in a trade that brought them All-Star Anthony Davis.

In a ticket cost plan revealed Monday morning, March 3, in a press release, the Mavericks said the new scale of seat prices will better reflect seat values in high-demand areas, seats closest to the court and fan experiences with upgrades and access to in-game entertainment and member benefits.

Despite the adjustments, full-season members could save up to 23% compared to projected market prices next season, according to the Mavericks.

Season-ticket costs for the Club Access Level, which includes premium seats and floor-area seating, will rise more than 10 percent and some terrace level seats are going up from $20 to $24 per game.

Kyrie Irving exits due to knee sprain

Dallas Mavericks standout guard Kyrie Irving left Monday night’s game against the Sacramento Kings with a left knee sprain sustained in the first quarter.

Irving was injured on a play in which he was fouled while driving to the hoop. He awkwardly landed on the court, immediately grabbed his left leg and called out for assistance.

Irving stayed in the game to make both free throws before exiting with 2:35 left in the quarter.

He was ruled out a short time later. The severity of the injury isn’t immediately known.

Irving’s injury comes during a tumultuous time for the Mavericks, who traded Doncic to the Lakers just more than a month ago.

Davis, obtained in the Doncic trade, sustained a groin injury February 8 in his first game and hasn’t played since. – Rappler.com